Portland, Maine: Black History Guided Walking Tour

The Black History Guided Walking Tour in Portland, Maine, offers an enriching opportunity to explore the city’s African American heritage. Led by the knowledgeable Dugan Murphy, the two-hour tour takes participants through historic neighborhoods, uncovering fascinating stories of the Underground Railroad and influential Black figures. At $49 per person, the captivating experience combines engaging storytelling with visual aids, all while supporting the restoration of the Abyssinian Meeting House, a significant landmark in Maine’s Black history. This tour promises to be a thought-provoking and enlightening adventure for those interested in delving deeper into the region’s diverse past.

This experience made our article of The 2 Top Historical Tours In Portland Maine: Which Is Best?.

Key Points

• A 2-hour guided walking tour in Portland, Maine that explores the city’s Black history, including sites associated with the Underground Railroad and Black stevedores.
• Tour is led by an entertainer-historian and official tour partner of the Maine Historical Society, featuring engaging storytelling and visual aids.
• Priced at $49 per person, with a maximum group size of 15 participants and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Tour proceeds support the restoration of the Abyssinian Meeting House, a historic Black church.
• Tour includes 1.5 miles of walking, with an alternative route available for accessibility needs, and lasts approximately 2 hours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

This guided walking tour, titled "Black History Guided Walking Tour" in Portland, Maine, offers an immersive exploration of the city’s rich African American heritage.

Priced from $49.00 per person, the 2-hour excursion accommodates up to 15 participants and is led in English. Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Priced at $49.00 per person, the 2-hour tour accommodates up to 15 guests and can be freely canceled 24 hours in advance.

The tour includes stops at the Old Port, Munjoy Hill, and historic sites connected to the Underground Railroad.

Proceeds support the restoration of the Abyssinian Meeting House, a significant landmark in Black history.

Itinerary and Highlights

Starting at the First Parish in Portland, Unitarian Universalist, the tour takes participants on a 1.5-mile journey through the city’s historic neighborhoods, including the Old Port and Munjoy Hill.

Along the way, the guide shares stories of Black stevedores and their economic impact, as well as the political leadership of Black Yankees.

Visitors will see homes associated with the Underground Railroad and explore the Eastern Cemetery, learning about enslaved individuals and freedom fighters.

The tour also highlights monuments and civic institutions significant to Black history in Maine from 1604 to the present day.

Tour Experience

Led by Dugan Murphy, an entertainer-historian and the official tour partner of the Maine Historical Society, the Black History Guided Walking Tour in Portland offers an engaging and informative experience.

Storytelling includes lesser-known historical facts, and participants have opportunities to interact with the guide. Printed images enhance the storytelling, providing a visual aid to the tales of enslaved individuals and freedom fighters.

The tour supports the restoration of the Abyssinian Meeting House, a community contribution that adds to the meaningful experience.

Participant Information

The tour begins at the First Parish Church in downtown Portland, where participants gather to embark on their exploration of Black history. The 1.5-mile walking tour includes uphill walking and climbing 17 steps, though an alternative route is available upon request for those with accessibility needs. The longest distance between stops is just 0.2 miles, about a 4-minute walk.

| Accessibility | Distance Covered |

| — | — |

| Tour includes walking uphill and 17 steps | 1.5 miles total |

| Alternative route available upon request | Longest distance between stops: 0.2 miles (4-minute walk) |

The tour is not suitable for pets, with the exception of service animals.

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Customer Feedback and Recommendations

How does the tour fare with customers? Based on the 4.9/5 rating from 9 reviews, the Black History Guided Walking Tour in Portland, Maine is highly regarded by participants.

Guests praised the tour as "informative and worthwhile," "wonderful and full of engaging historical insights," and appreciated the guide’s "knowledge and fun approach."

Reviewers recommend bringing comfortable shoes, an umbrella, water, and weather-appropriate clothing. Pets aren’t allowed, though assistance dogs are permitted.

Black Heritage in Maine

Maine’s Black heritage dates back to the early 1600s, when the state witnessed the arrival of some of the earliest African settlers in North America.

Over the centuries, Black individuals and communities have played a pivotal role in Maine’s history, from serving as stevedores in the bustling ports to championing political leadership.

Over the centuries, Black individuals and communities have played a pivotal role in Maine’s history, from serving as stevedores to championing political leadership.

This walking tour delves into the stories of enslaved individuals who found freedom through the Underground Railroad and the contributions of Black Yankees who left an indelible mark on the state’s economy and social fabric.

It’s a captivating exploration of Maine’s rich Black heritage.

Significance of the Abyssinian Meeting House

Amidst the exploration of Maine’s rich Black heritage, the Abyssinian Meeting House stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the state’s African American community. This historic church, built in 1828, served as a hub for activism, education, and spiritual refuge during the era of slavery and the fight for civil rights.

| Significance of the Abyssinian Meeting House |

| — | — | — | — | — |

| Served as a hub for the Underground Railroad | Provided educational opportunities for Black youth | Hosted anti-slavery lectures and political organizing | Supported the local African American community | Continues to be a symbol of Black history and culture in Maine |

The preservation and restoration of this sacred site remains a priority, with a portion of the tour’s ticket sales contributing to these efforts. The Abyssinian Meeting House’s enduring legacy reflects the unwavering spirit of Maine’s Black pioneers.

FAQ

What Types of Tours Are Offered Besides the Black History Tour?

The tour company also offers guided walking tours focused on the city’s architecture, history, and coastal scenery. They may provide other specialized tours, but the provided information doesn’t mention any additional tour types besides the Black history tour.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Multiple Tours?

The tour provider doesn’t currently offer any discounts or packages for booking multiple tours. However, they may introduce such options in the future to provide more affordable access to their guided experiences.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups or School Field Trips?

Yes, the tour can be customized for private groups or school field trips. The company offers private tours with discounted rates and tailored content to meet the specific needs and interests of the group.

What Is the Wheelchair Accessibility of the Tour Route?

The tour route has some accessibility challenges, but the tour company offers an alternative route for wheelchair users upon request. The longest distance between stops is 0.2 miles, and the tour includes walking uphill and climbing 17 steps.

Are There Any Local Dining or Shopping Recommendations Near the Tour?

The tour’s starting point, First Parish Church, is located in downtown Portland’s vibrant Old Port district. Visitors can explore the area’s locally-owned shops, galleries, and eclectic dining options before or after the tour.

Sum Up

The "Black History Guided Walking Tour" in Portland, Maine, offers an enriching exploration of the city’s African American heritage. Participants embark on a two-hour journey led by Dugan Murphy, uncovering stories of the Underground Railroad and influential Black figures while supporting the restoration of the Abyssinian Meeting House. This enlightening adventure is a must-try for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Maine’s Black history.

You can check availability for your dates here: